Best Tent Camping near Penhook, VA

Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Penhook? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Penhook, including sites, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Virginia tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Penhook, VA (11)

    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park

    1. Vic Thomas Park

    1 Review
    9 Photos
    Roanoke, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeden Bottom Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeden Bottom Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeden Bottom Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeden Bottom Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeden Bottom Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Breeden Bottom Campground

    2. Breeden Bottom Campground

    4 Reviews
    9 Photos
    74 Saves
    Buchanan, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table

    $40 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp

    3. Willville Motorcycle Camp

    7 Reviews
    9 Photos
    15 Saves
    Woolwine, Virginia

    Motorcycle Traffic Only

    Motorcycling and Camping are natural companions. Maximize your love of motorcycle travel and the great outdoors at Willville Bikecamp. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Willville is a destination, a meeting point, a base camp to explore the great Blue Ridge Parkway, or a place just to rest and relax. Motorcycle camping at Willville is ideal for a weekend run or an extended getaway.

    Bunkhouse and Camping cabin including a private bike shelter now available.

    Ideally located less than one mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Willville is set in an area that offers some of the best roads and scenery for the ultimate motorcycling experience.

    The secluded campground sits within a 26 acre wooded park providing privacy from the main road while still offering easy access. The campground is designed for motorcycle traffic only, however, there is ample parking outside the campground (within the park) for those who wish to trailer their motorcycles.

    Once in the campground, a sparkling mountain creek borders most of the shaded campsites. Individual grassy camping areas offer a comfortable and convenient location for tent setup. The sites also provide picnic tables and a nice level surface for those motorcyclists pulling trailers.

    The large 770 square foot bathhouse facilities include six sinks, six showers and six toilets to get everyone off to an early start, with plenty of pressure and hot water. A spacious pavillion is available for group gatherings and cookouts.

    At Willville you can chose a walk through the peaceful park, visit with the other campers or simply just relax. Plus, for exciting road trips and breath-taking scenery, don't forget about all of our fantastic roads for motorcycling.

    At night gather at the group campfire to meet new friends and share your motorcycle adventures. Local attractions include Mabry's Mill, Chateau Morrisette Winery, Villa Appalachia Winery, Poor Farmer's Market, Tuggles Gap, live musicians at Floyd General Store, Virginia International Raceway, home of the AMA Superbike Nationals, the Floyd World Music Festival and many more points of interest.

    Campground is open from Mid-April through October.

    Willville is ideally located at the midpoint of The Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive combined. Plan a trip to Willville and maximize your Blue Ridge experience.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $150 - $200 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Catawba mountain shelter
    Camper-submitted photo from Catawba mountain shelter
    Camper-submitted photo from Catawba mountain shelter

    4. Catawba mountain shelter

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    7 Saves
    Hollins, Virginia

    The water source is downhill in front of the shelter. Not reliable during late summer or during periods of drought. There are overflow campsites just north of the shelter.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragon's Tooth
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragon's Tooth
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragon's Tooth
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragon's Tooth
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragon's Tooth

    5. Dragon's Tooth

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    115 Saves
    Salem, Virginia

    Be sure to adhere to camping restrictions for these areas: https://www.ratc.org/mcafee-knob-and-the-triple-crown/

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Floating Heaven
    Camper-submitted photo from Floating Heaven
    Camper-submitted photo from Floating Heaven
    Camper-submitted photo from Floating Heaven
    Camper-submitted photo from Floating Heaven
    Camper-submitted photo from Floating Heaven

    6. Floating Heaven

    3 Reviews
    72 Photos
    74 Saves
    Blacksburg, Virginia

    Floating Heaven is a treehouse site with a cabin. You can sleep in the small, zinc-roof-covered 'casita' or cabin, which can accommodate two adults and two (small) children. Or you can sleep on the deck platform in a hammock (we have one to rent), or a tent (bring your own or rent our 2- or 4-person tents). One platform is 10 x 10 ft. and the other is 10 x 12 ft. Eight trees pass through and support the platforms, situated 21 feet off the ground. A sturdy low-riser step leads you up (no climbing necessary). An acre of heavily forested trees and a meadow surround the site, which is not a primitive campground (i.e, far removed from civilization) but insulated from the town on the ex-urban perimeter. The term, floating heaven, refers to the tree-anchor bolts that allow the platforms to "float" when the tree canopies (60-80 feet tall) move in the wind.

    We'll get you going with some kindling and a few logs; lots of down branches and tree trunks on the property for making a nice bonfire, or you can use a small fire pit (e-stove) for a cozier setting. We have tables, chairs, a very slow drip-camp shower (unheated), a biodegradable commode (one just for urinating), and a full biodegradable unit on the ground. There is a charcoal grill for your use at no charge. There is also a 3-outlet outlet for charging up your phones or using other electric devices. Ours is an ex-urban location; you are just two miles from Virginia Tech (5 minutes from Starbucks, and Mexican. pulled-pork, fast food, subs, and Thai restaurants) but you are nestled under a nice hardwood canopy. Its the best of all possible worlds.

    R U L E S

    1). Must arrive before sunset so we can show you around; after all, it is a treehouse and there are safety issues you should be apprised of.

    2). You will forfeit your reservation if you arrive after 8 p.m without prior approval.

    3). While 6 people is the maximum, the standard book rate includes 4 campers; additional campers over 12 years old should pay an extra $15 a person. Thus far, The Dyrt hasn't figured out how to pay for the fifth and sixth guests so be prepared to pay cash or via Venmo or Zelle.

    4). Parents must take care that their children obey the safety features. There are trails around the property that are nicely graded and gravel-covered.

    5). All electronics and loud conversation ends after 9 p.m.; sounds carry in the valley.

    6). We recycle: two wastebaskets exist for trash and another for recyclables (aluminum, glass, cardboard, plastic). Please carry wastebaskets up and leave on the driveway. We'll separate and dispose of them.

    7). A camping ethic to which we adhere is that you take out of the forest what you bring into it; be considerate. This is not a trailer park. Leave trash at the top of the driveway.

    1. Don't walk down to the site in flip-flops (to avoid falling on the gravel; it is steep in places)

    9.) We are proudly LGBTQ-friendly.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Glamping

    $55 - $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

    7. Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    131 Saves
    Glasgow, Virginia

    The best way to find out what areas are open to dispersed camping is to contact the nearest District Office to the area you wish to visit. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads and look for a clearing or a spot with a view. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. Dispersed camping is allowed in a one-mile perimeter away from campgrounds and 200 feet from any stream. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    • No image available

      8. Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground)

      1 Review
      10 Saves
      Big Island, Virginia
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Hopper Creek Group Camp
        Camper-submitted photo from Hopper Creek Group Camp

        10. Hopper Creek Group Camp

        Be the first to review!
        2 Photos
        8 Saves
        Natural Bridge Station, Virginia

        Overview

        Hopper Creek Group Camp offers a rustic atmosphere under the trees for group camping. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area welcomes visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere.

        Recreation

        A mowed, grassy area is available for games and organized activities. Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from short walks in and around Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area to a full day hike along the nearby ridges. Backpacking opportunities are also available on the nearby Appalachian National Scenic Trail, in the James River Face Wilderness or in the Thunder Ridge Wilderness.

        Natural Features

        A small stream gurgles past the camping area flowing downstream into Hopper Creek on its way to the James River. The campground sits at an approximate elevation of 1,100 feet at the base of Thunder Ridge.

        Nearby Attractions

        Hopper Creek is 3 miles from Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area, which offers a day use area with sandy beach, designated swimming area and covered picnic shelter. Natural Bridge State Park is within an 8 mile drive and offers visitors views of the 215 foot tall Natural Bridge and limestone gorge, 6 miles of hiking trails, a Monacan Indian village and the 30 foot cascades of Lace Falls. Natural Bridge State Park is also a great place for unobstructed sky views and star gazing on mowed paths. Canoeing, kayaking and fishing are available in the nearby James River.

        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Group

        $20 - $40 / night

      Show More
      Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews in Penhook

      357 Reviews of 11 Penhook Campgrounds


      • Valerie P.
        Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
        Oct. 29, 2024

        Smith Mountain Campground

        Nice clean & spacious independent campground

        This is a very well maintained& clean campground. The owner is great and the camp host was very attentive. There is a good sized catch and release pond, we were at site#17 that was one site from the pond and not sure if you could see the water from#18 but the short walk to the pond is up a small hill/bunker like thing so there’s not a direct view of the water from#17 if that’s what you are looking for. There is a good play area and nice pavilion for groups and a smaller camping area down from the bathhouse. We have a 22’ TT, but I imagine the turn into the campground with a large motorhome would need some consideration for the driver to take their time. The drive to Smith Mountain Lake is not bad. The entry road off of RT 40 is at an angle, not a 90 degree turn so if you are coming from the East, it’s at the top of the hill but more than a 90 deg turn, coming from the West on 40 it’s an easy turn but you can’t see the traffic coming up the hill so be careful. There’s a convenience store, Penhook store, on 40 and it does have some raw and frozen meats, bait, ice, charcoal and the other basic store stuff. We came from the West and Rocky Mount has a Kroger and Wak-Mart. Wi-Fi was standard campground speed, didn’t use the bathhouse,power and water presser were good, site could have been a bit more level but they may work on that over the winter. Check in was a breeze, directly to the site but still greeted and checked on by the host. Some full timers and seasonal trailers but they were in good shape and clean. September stay so still had mosquitoes and fresh stink bugs, yeah! Have fun!

      • N
        Camper-submitted photo from North Creek Campground
        Oct. 13, 2024

        North Creek Campground

        Great campground

        very private, $15 a night, water, bathrooms, right on the river, pet friendly👍.. right next to the AT.. I have a German shepherd and a mini Australian shepherd and they had a blast!

      • S
        Camper-submitted photo from Interstate Overnight Park
        Oct. 8, 2024

        Interstate Overnight Park

        *******B E W A R E*****

        Do not stay here! 

        Sex offenders & homeless people come knocking on your doors at night! 

        Corrupt & not safe!

        Cracker Barrel across the street & lovely campgrounds off 81exit 84

      • EThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Bridge
        Sep. 17, 2024

        Thunder Bridge

        Idyllic forest campground

        Thunder BRidge is a unique property tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Near Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia, the campground was once a CCC camp. Now it is home to many quiet tent sites, screen cabins, log cabins, and even some fully furnished rental cabins.

        The campground is about 60% wooded, the rest is open ground with buildings from the camp's earlier days. The open area includes  several artists' studios.  At one edge is a forest creek, great for wading. 

        The campground is mostly tenting sites and rustic cabins, but there are RV sites in the open area.

        This is not a "resort" but you won't find a more beautiful, quiet campground!

      • Kristie S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
        Sep. 16, 2024

        Vic Thomas Park

        Roanoke River

        Camped over night twice. Bathrooms stay open 24/7. Made fire no problems. River does rise alittle overnight if camping with tent. Very quiet & peaceful at night.

      • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
        Sep. 8, 2024

        Willville Motorcycle Camp

        Great stop!!

        Best campground I’ve stayed at on a bike. Very welcoming, quiet and peaceful. Few small town stores about a mile away including gas. Nice bath houses with shower. We had a fire every night and good conversation. Great stop, 10/10 I will make a point to be back!

      • LDcakes
        Camper-submitted photo from North Creek Campground
        Aug. 24, 2024

        North Creek Campground

        A Peaceful Camping Getaway

        Our camping trip in Virginia was a step into serene simplicity for just $15. Nestled in a beautiful forest, we found peace with no electricity, no internet, and no phone signals—just pure nature. The campsite featured picnic tables, a fire pit, and even hooks to hang a cauldron for boiling water or cooking fish, adding to the rustic charm. Although there were no showers or sinks, the pit toilet served its purpose well. We spent our time enjoying a barbecue under the stars, fully embracing the natural world around us. Despite bear warnings and the lack of modern conveniences, this getaway left us refreshed and grateful for the peacefulness that only nature can offer.

      • Bobby C.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
        Jul. 13, 2024

        COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park

        Scenic, tranquil, well-maintained, accommodating.

        Our family recently had an excellent experience camping at Goose Point Campground. Nestled along Philpott Lake, the campground offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The well-maintained, spacious campsites provided privacy and convenient water & electric hookups for our camper.

        We enjoyed a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, and jet skiing on the lake, as well as hiking on nearby trails. The clean facilities and friendly, helpful staff made our stay even more enjoyable.

        Overall, Goose Point Campground is perfect for both a peaceful retreat and lake life adventure. Highly recommended!

      • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Tina's Dream
        Jun. 13, 2024

        Tina's Dream

        Thank you The Dyrt help me found Tina Deam.

        Tina is a very nice lady! Camp in her house driveway, it is my first time, but quiet and safe neighborhood. We arrived very late evening, after nine o'clock.  she help us hoop up the electricity and water.

        It is a nice alternate campground!

      • VThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Chris’s Private Property
        May. 26, 2024

        Chris’s Private Property

        Basic private startup site with hookup

        Chris is establishing a couple of sites on his private property and getting organized. Simple and just off the road, but quiet. Chris is friendly and reachable by phone. A short 100 yards to a rushing creek. We needed a last minute spot during Memorial Day weekend and Chris set us up. Now showers, flat gravel site with pull through between hookups and picnic table platform.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
        Mar. 14, 2024

        Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

        Great Option

        Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream.

      • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
        Camper-submitted photo from Tina's Dream
        Mar. 1, 2024

        Tina's Dream

        New to the Dyrt!

        Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

      • N
        Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake Family Campground
        Feb. 22, 2024

        Paradise Lake Family Campground

        Favorite campground

        I stay here at least once every summer. Has beautiful pool and lake, playground, arcade, and boat rentals. Fishing, hiking, basketball. Very friendly staff all the time. Close to stores and restaurants but far enough out to not hear any noise. Phone service is superb. Clean shower and restrooms. Hot water. Electric tent sites!!! Has everything I live and will continue to go here as long as I’m in the state of Va. def recommended

      • adam B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
        Feb. 20, 2024

        Paradise Lake & Campground

        Neat, tucked away and quiet

        This place is relatively small, but surrounds a small lake. Sites are close together, but everyone is respectful. Bathrooms leave something to be desired, and there is no family bathroom, but otherwise decent and the water is hot. With a little work this place could be great.

      • k
        Camper-submitted photo from Pop's Place in the Blue Ridge
        Dec. 6, 2023

        Pop's Place in the Blue Ridge

        Tranquility! You will see deer while looking at the mountains all around!

        We spent 2 nights away from any road with lots of deer and beautiful mountain views! The owner is very friendly and so accommodating! our 40 ft rig is maybe not the right camper for this area but we enjoyed every minute of it! We had a beautiful hike in Fairystone Park and relaxed the rest of the time.

        We will come back!!

      • Matthew S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Lake Reidsville Recreation Park
        Nov. 26, 2023

        Lake Reidsville Recreation Park

        Just a weekend getaway to try out our new to us camper.

        We love coming to Lake Reidsville. We have tent camped many times there and now have been with a camper. It was peaceful and the view is always amazing.

      • Staci W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
        Nov. 1, 2023

        Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

        Mostly perfect

        The pros:

        • Clean Bathrooms with flushable toilets
        • quiet campground
        • close to the lodge and “store” if you need firewood or other items
        • bear boxes scattered throughout the campground
        • $20 per night
        • BEAUTIFUL in the fall!
        • they have more campsites available on FCFS basis than they do for reservations on recreation.gov

        The not so great:

        • the campsites can be tricky to get into depending on your vehicle. Many of the parking areas are on a hill.

        Overall, I would stay here again!

      • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
        Camper-submitted photo from Pop's Place in the Blue Ridge
        Oct. 27, 2023

        Pop's Place in the Blue Ridge

        Your Spot to Spread Out and Enjoy Mountain Views

        Jake from the Dyrt here! Pop's Place in Blue Ridge is a simple spot where you can bring your tent or RV to spread out and enjoy the mountain views from your site.  Although it feels like another world, this campsite is still close to local shopping & the Blue Ridge Parkway for those needing to get their nature fix!  Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!


      Drive Time


      Guide to Penhook

      Tent camping near Penhook, Virginia, offers a serene escape into nature with a variety of well-reviewed sites that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful riverside retreat or a spot near hiking trails, there's something for everyone.

      Local Attractions and Activities

      • Experience the tranquility of the Roanoke River at Vic Thomas Park, where you can enjoy quiet nights and the soothing sounds of nature.
      • For those seeking adventure, Dragon's Tooth provides access to the Appalachian Trail, perfect for hiking and exploring stunning views.
      • The scenic Breeden Bottom Campground is ideal for kayaking and fishing, with direct river access from your campsite.

      Tent Camping Prices

      • Tent camping at Catawba Mountain Shelter is free, making it a budget-friendly option for campers looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
      • At Floating Heaven, prices for tent camping start around $30, offering unique amenities and a charming atmosphere.
      • The Willville Motorcycle Camp provides a welcoming environment for motorcycle campers, with rates typically around $36 per site.

      Tips for Tent Camping Near Penhook

      • Bring your own water, as many sites like Breeden Bottom Campground do not provide potable water.
      • Be prepared for varying conditions; for instance, Dragon's Tooth has a strenuous hike to the top, so pack light and wear sturdy shoes.
      • Check for amenities like toilets and fire pits; sites such as Vic Thomas Park offer basic facilities, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Penhook, VA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Penhook, VA is Vic Thomas Park with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Penhook, VA?

        TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Penhook, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.